SCCL constructing buildings without permits

Kothagudem : Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) has reportedly commenced the construction of residential quarters across multiple locations in Kothagudem without obtaining prior approval from municipal authorities.

The construction, with an estimated cost of Rs 273 crore, is taking place in areas such as Writer Basthi and Millennium Quarters. Notably, work on nearly 643 apartments began without the necessary municipal permits.

While Kothagudem Municipality has previously issued notices and even demolished unauthorised buildings, no action has been taken against SCCL’s ongoing projects.

The SCCL management, which is expected to be an example of compliance with government regulations, has come under fire in the town for carrying out the illegal activity.

The agreement for the construction of the quarters was finalised in January last year, following a call for tenders. The projects, currently in various stages of development, are scheduled for completion by December this year. Municipal Commissioner Seshanjaneya Swamy confirmed that the SCCL quarters have not received approval. Despite SCCL’s request for authorisation, it was denied due to technical reasons.

The company is building on government-leased land, but TS-bPASS has not accepted the lease documents necessary for permission. Regarding this, a letter was submitted to the department of municipal administration. Swamy went on to say that building shouldn’t be done without permission and that the issue would be investigated.